We don’t meditate to control our thoughts; we meditate to free ourselves from being controlled by them.

Meditation isn’t something we do, because doing implies action, and meditation is about being. It is a state that arises effortlessly. Yet, to experience that state, we often need effort, which is known as Dharana— consciously bringing the mind back to the present moment.

Whether we are sitting, walking, cooking, or engaging in any activity, Dharana invites us to disengage from the mental chatter—thoughts of the past, worries, fears, or anticipations—and rest fully in awareness of our being. This being, this presence, is the only truth we can directly experience. Everything else is a mental fabrication.

The more we anchor ourselves in this presence, the more our being expands—opening to light, peace, harmony, and love.

In this space, at Satopath, we begin with Sravana—listening. Through listening, we plant seeds of truth that nourish contemplation (Manana). And drop by drop, that truth takes root and becomes realization (Nididhyasana). From this fertile ground, the flower of Dhyana, or effortless meditation, blooms naturally.